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June 11, 2024

Bonterra Organic Estates Introduces New Winemaking Team Alongside Reimagined Label

America’s Favorite Organically Farmed Wine Enters Next Era Amid Exponential Growth

HOPLAND, Calif., (June 12, 2024) – Bolstered by 16 percent growth in the first quarter of 2024 across a diverse portfolio of organically farmed wines1, Bonterra Organic Estates today announced powerhouse winemaker Margaret Leonardi-Pruett will helm the brand’s beloved Bonterra Collection as Senior Winemaker, beginning with the 2024 vintage.

Following the retirement of celebrated Bonterra winemaker Jeff Cichocki, Leonardi-Pruett joins Sebastian Donoso in fueling the brand’s burgeoning momentum. Donoso, the esteemed winemaker behind Bonterra’s award-winning Single Vineyard Collection, adds the brand’s Regenerative Organic Certified® Estate Collection to his repertoire, while viticulture expert and climate-smart farming advocate, Joseph Brinkley, continues to oversee vineyard operations for Bonterra.

Building on a Legacy

“I am thrilled to join Sebastian in stewarding a heritage brand that places so much value on how we impact the environment and communities,” said Leonardi-Pruett. “Working with organic grapes from vineyards throughout the state of California gives me the opportunity to express the pure quality that organic farming affords us.”

To this new role, Leonardi-Pruett brings nearly 15 years of experience crafting award-winning wines for a diverse array of celebrated brands. She joined the company in 2015 and most recently served as head winemaker for Fetzer, becoming the first woman to lead the brand’s winemaking team in its more than 50-year history. Donoso, whose winemaking career spans more than 17 years, joined Bonterra Organic Estates in 2017. He previously crafted small-lot wines from organic vineyards at Campovida and Saracina wineries in Mendocino County.

Both Leonardi-Pruett and Donoso bring a wealth of expertise and a collaborative spirit to their individual roles, acting as a sounding board–and a tasting palate–for one another, and inspiring new ideas and innovations.

“I’m excited about the invigorating energy Margaret brings to Bonterra, and I look forward to working closely with her on crafting our portfolio of Bonterra wines,” said Donoso, recently elevated to Senior Winemaker at Bonterra Organic Estates. “I am especially passionate about our estate-grown fruit, because it gives me the opportunity to accentuate the nuances that make inland Mendocino County unique.”

The Next Generation of Bonterra Packaging

As Bonterra embarks on its next chapter, consumer interest in organically farmed wine is soaring. Amid a downturn in conventional wine sales (-0.9 percent), sales of organic wine grew an impressive 27.9 percent in the first quarter of 20242, indicating consumer preferences are shifting toward values-aligned brands like Bonterra–which aptly means Good Earth. And as consumers increasingly recognize wine made from organic grapes as an integral part of a broader farm-to-table movement, Bonterra is poised to continue its impactful role in the category’s growth; the brand is accelerating with a velocity change of 13 percent3.

As consumers evolve toward more sustainable wine options, Bonterra is reimagining its label for the Bonterra Collection, bringing a fresh and modern aesthetic to the brand’s longstanding organic ethos. In addition to its contemporary block-letter logo, the next-generation label heralds Bonterra’s commitment to promoting biodiversity as a fundamental tenet of organic grape growing. Hand-drawn illustrations of specific beneficial insects and birds found on Bonterra’s estate–matched to each varietal–spotlight the invaluable contributions of wildlife to the vineyard ecosystem.

“Our new packaging reflects our deep roots in environmental stewardship and our optimistic outlook toward the future of climate-smart farming and eco-minded winemaking,” said Rachel Newman, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Bonterra Organic Estates. “This pivotal moment marks the start of a new era in Bonterra’s nearly 40-year history, and gives us the opportunity to connect in a meaningful way with consumers who share our values.”

References 

[1] Circana L13 Weeks ending 03-31-24, Total Mulo + C
[2] Circana L13 Weeks ending 03-31-24, Total Mulo + C
[3] Circana L13 Weeks ending 03-31-24, Total Mulo + C

April 11, 2024

Casillero Del Diablo Becomes Official Wine of the Mexican National Teams in the U.S

Mexico’s Number One Wine Brand and FMF Form Multi-Year Partnership

NEW YORK (April 3, 2024) – The Federación Mexicana de Fútbol (FMF) and Soccer United Marketing (SUM), the commercial arm and partner of Mexico’s annual U.S. “MexTour” for more than two decades, today announced a multi-year partnership with Casillero del Diablo, which was named the official wine of the senior Mexican National Teams in the U.S. – including men’s and women’s teams.

Casillero del Diablo, recognized as the second most powerful wine brand in the world[1], is the number one wine brand in Mexico,[2] and the leading import brand in the U.S.[3] The Chilean brand is sold in more than 100 counties across the world, and its wines have received more than 109 scores of 90 points and above in recent years[4]. With a reputation as a global standard-bearer for quality that dates to the release of the brand’s first wine in 1966, Casillero del Diablo will increase its brand awareness through this wide-ranging partnership with a combination of high visibility in-venue signage and fan experiences, which includes the development of limited-edition branded wine bottles. The brand will also showcase a suite of innovative, sensory-focused activations that will build momentum and relevance for the brand across the Mexican National Teams’ fanbase in the U.S.

“Casillero del Diablo is thrilled to unite with the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol and Soccer United Marketing in this exciting partnership,” said Rodrigo Maturana, president of Marketing for Viña Concha y Toro USA, which has Casillero del Diablo in its acclaimed portfolio of wines. “As the official wine of the Mexican National Teams in the U.S., we’re poised to amplify the Casillero brand presence and engage fans through innovative experiences. This collaboration symbolizes a strategic alliance, blending tradition with forward-thinking approaches to enhance the fan journey and entice new consumers to the wine category.”

Both the Mexican Men’s and Women’s National Teams will play a series of games across the United States, as the Mexican Men’s National Team recently announced the upcoming U.S.-based friendlies which include matches against Bolivia (May 31 in Chicago), Uruguay (June 5 in Denver), Brazil (June 8 in College Station, Texas), New Zealand (Sept. 7 in Pasadena, Calif.) and Canada (Sept. 10 in Arlington, Texas). Tickets and more information are available at www.SomosLocales.com.

“We are always pleased to introduce a sponsor of the Mexican National Teams, and we couldn’t be more excited to officially bring Casillero del Diablo into our family,” said Enrique Nieto, FMF Director of Strategic Alliances. “We are confident that with Mexico’s leading wine brand on our team, together we will connect with MNT fans through great experiences.”

Now in its 21st edition, the MexTour has delighted sports fans across the United States with marquee soccer matches against top opponents at world-class venues, including most U.S. stadiums scheduled to host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. More than just a game, each tour stop features the AT&T Futbol Fiesta fan fest, as well as fan and media events throughout the markets. Mexico’s supporters have responded with an average attendance of nearly 60,000 per match in the last decade, thanks to its estimated fan base of 60 million people (study: Equation Research). With a conglomeration of top blue-chip sponsors, the MexTour is recognized as one of the most successful sports properties on the continent. On the pitch, MexTour matches allow the team to prepare for important competitions such as the FIFA World Cup, the Concacaf Gold Cup, and CONMEBOL Copa America.

“The Mexican National Team is a driving force of the sport and its growth across North America, and Soccer United Marketing is proud to announce Casillero del Diablo as the Federation’s latest U.S. partner, said Carter Ladd, Soccer United Marketing Chief Revenue Officer. “Casillero del Diablo is legendary, global winemaker, and we know Mexico’s massive, passionate fanbase in America will enjoy this partnership for many years to come.”

For more information, please visit www.SomosLocales.com or www.casillerodeldiablo.com.

About Soccer United Marketing

Soccer United Marketing (SUM), the commercial arm of Major League Soccer, is the preeminent commercial soccer enterprise in North America, overseeing the commercialization, marketing, promotion, and operational execution of the region’s most successful soccer entities. SUM holds the exclusive rights to Major League Soccer, the Mexican National Teams for the U.S. market (MexTour and MexTour W), Leagues Cup, Campeones Cup, Copa Angelina and Concacaf Properties (including Concacaf Gold Cup™, Concacaf Nations League Finals, Concacaf Champions Cup and Concacaf W). In addition, SUM held the promotional and commercial rights to the highly successful 2016 Copa America Centenario.

[1] Wine Intelligence Report (2018 -2023; six consecutive years)

[2] Brand Equity Study, 2022 – Kantar

[3] Circana / Total US MULO+C / 52 weeks ending 12-31-23

[4] Scores from 2016 – March 2024 across global industry trade publications

About Casillero del Diablo

Rooted in a mysterious 19th Century tale about the “Devil’s Cellar,” Casillero del Diablo is a legend more than 140 years in the making. In the 1880s, Don Melchor de Concha y Toro was revered for crafting some of Chile’s finest wines. To fend off thieves who pilfered coveted bottles from his cellar, Don Melchor spread a rumor that the Devil himself guarded the wines. The tale he spun kept his cellar untouched, sparking a mysterious legend that has passed from generation to generation. Today, Casillero del Diablo crafts award-winning wines that evoke Chile’s extraordinary wine regions, and are sold across 100 countries across the world. The collection includes a Cabernet Sauvignon sourced primarily from Maipo Valley; a Carmenere consistently acclaimed by wine critics; a bright, coastal Sauvignon Blanc; and a crisp Rosé. With more than 109 scores of 90 points and above in recent years, Casillero del Diablo is an unforgettable source or exemplary Chilean wines that live up to their legend.

March 27, 2024

Bonterra Organic Estates Introduces Regenerative Organic Certified® Estate Sauvignon Blanc Ahead of Earth Month

Springtime Offering Arrives Amid Soaring Consumer Demand for Regenerative Organic Products

On the heels of skyrocketing growth in the Regenerative Organic Certified® food and beverage category–and just in time for the return of outdoor sipping–Bonterra Organic Estates, America’s largest Regenerative Organic Certified winery, is introducing its first-ever Bonterra Estate Sauvignon Blanc, crafted entirely from estate-grown Regenerative Organic Certified vines in Mendocino County, California. The bright and aromatic offering dovetails the arrival of spring with resounding momentum for the regenerative organic movement; U.S. consumers spent $39M on Regenerative Organic Certified food and beverage products in 2023 , a year-over-year increase of 39 percent .

“Our new Estate Sauvignon Blanc marries the regenerative organic ethos with the quintessential varietal of spring,” said Hilary Butler, senior director of Marketing for Bonterra Organic Estates. “Now, fans of Sauvignon Blanc’s crisp, refreshing character can feel confident–during Earth Month and beyond–their wine is made by artisans who care deeply about soil health, animal welfare and social fairness.”

Sauvignon Blanc: Spring’s Favorite Varietal
It’s no secret wine consumers are clamoring for Sauvignon Blanc. Sales of the varietal grew 6.8 percent in 2023 ; Bonterra Sauvignon Blanc sales outpaced total growth for the varietal with an impressive 11-percent increase in 2023 . As much of the country gears up for all that spring promises–dining al fresco, mingling at backyard soirees, and lounging by the pool with a glass of wine in hand–the 2023 Bonterra Estate Sauvignon Blanc delivers a mouthwatering combination of citrus, passionfruit and lime zest, enveloped in crisp acidity.

The inaugural release is fresh, vibrant and profoundly aromatic, with pronounced citrus notes. Additionally, a small portion of the blend was fermented in oak barrels, giving the wine a rich, round mouthfeel.

The Bonterra Estate Collection: Regenerative Organics, Bottled

The 2023 Bonterra Estate Sauvignon Blanc joins a line-up of lauded wines crafted exclusively from Regenerative Organic Certified grapes grown on Bonterra’s Mendocino County ranches: the 2022 Bonterra Estate Chardonnay, awarded 93 points by Wine Enthusiast (May 2024); the limited-release 2022 Bonterra Estate Red Blend, awarded 93 points by Wine Enthusiast (May 2024); and the 2022 Bonterra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, named Best of Class at the 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Since its founding more than 35 years ago, Bonterra Organic Estates has remained a symbol of organic viticulture, rooted in a commitment to “leave the earth better than we found it.” Longtime pioneers of regenerative organic practices–before such a moniker existed–Bonterra today leads the wine industry with its steadfast advocacy of climate-smart farming and a 35-percent share of the market for wines made from organic grapes . Eco-conscious consumers have responded emphatically: Sales of Bonterra’s organically farmed wines grew seven percent in 2023 .

The nonprofit Regenerative Organic Alliance–a group of experts in farming, ranching, soil health, animal welfare, and farmer and worker fairness–developed the Regenerative Organic Certified program to move beyond sustainable and organic farming, incorporating three vital pillars into one rigorous certification: soil health, animal welfare and social fairness. Bonterra Organic Estates’ vineyards and winery achieved certification in 2021, with the first Regenerative Organic Certified grapes harvested that same year.

“How we treat the land, animals and people is fundamental to our core values,” said Joseph Brinkley, director of Regenerative Organic Development for Bonterra Organic Estates. “The social component of the Regenerative Organic Certified program is particularly important, because it moves beyond understanding how to farm without exploiting the soil to understanding how to farm without exploiting people. We think of it as farming in service of life.”

The inaugural release of Bonterra’s Estate Sauvignon Blanc–from the remarkable 2023 harvest in Mendocino County, California–celebrates the power of regenerative organics and heralds the arrival of spring with a vibrant, citrus-accented wine.

The 2023 Estate Sauvignon Blanc is available for purchase at bonterra.com and in wine shops throughout the U.S. Bonterra’s Estate Collection wines are priced at $21.99.

December 4, 2023

Bonterra Organic Estates Launches Limited Release Regenerative Organic Certified® Red Blend Exclusively Online

Online exclusive available in time for holiday gatherings and gifting occasions.

HOPLAND, CA., December 5, 2023 —  Just in time for the holidays, Bonterra Organic Estates®, the leading producer of Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC) wine, proudly unveils the 2022 Red Blend as the latest addition to its esteemed Bonterra Estate Collection. Responding to enthusiastic demand from Bonterra fans, this limited release is poised to debut exclusively on the brand’s website starting December 4.

Bonterra Organic Estates sets the benchmark for ROC wines worldwide. The Red Blend is the third ROC wine in the esteemed Bonterra Estate Collection following the successful launch of the 2021 Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon earlier this year. A unique blend of Petite Sirah, Malbec, with a touch of Zinfandel, the Red Blend is a luscious, full-bodied wine boasting layered black cherry, black currant, and spice notes. Enjoyable immediately or suitable for cellaring for up to five years, this 100% estate-grown wine is bottled in the incomparable Mendocino County AVA.

Hilary Butler, senior director of marketing for Bonterra Organic Estates, emphasizes, “The Red Blend is a testament to four decades of pioneering organic viticulture and our commitment to cultivating a better future.”

Bonterra Organic Estates, one of only 15 wineries in the United States to achieve Regenerative Organic Certification, certified all its Mendocino County vineyards and the winery at the silver level in 2021. Dedicated to transparent and responsible business practices, the winery holds additional certifications, including B Corp, TRUE Zero Waste, and Climate Neutral, and is a California Certified Organic Farmer.

Organic wine sales grew + 7% in volume from 2017 to 2022 in the United States. With Bonterra’s commitment to regenerative organic practices, it has emerged as the leading organic brand boasting 36% market share and surpassing performance in the super premium segment.[1] Remarkably, within a single year, the introduction of the Estate Collection has broadened its reach to over 5,000 points of distribution across the U.S. and offering direct shipping to consumers in 40 states nationwide.[2]

Starting on December 4, the Red Blend will be available for purchase on Bonterra.com. This online exclusive offering reflects Bonterra Organic Estates innovative and consumer-centric approach, catering to the preferences of the modern, eco-conscious wine consumer.

SRP: $22.00

[1] IWSR, “Sustainability concerns drive interest in organic, natural and alternative wines”

[2] Bonterra +4.4% dollar sales in latest 26 weeks ending 10/1/23 – Circana/Total US MULO+C – Domestic 750ml Super Premium Segment

July 20, 2023

Bonterra Organic Estates Unveils New Leadership Structure to Drive Growth and Success in a Rapidly Evolving Global Wine Market

Hopland, Calif. Jul 20, 2023 – Bonterra Organic Estates, the trailblazer of organic viticulture, announces a significant milestone with the introduction of a transformative co-management structure. This dynamic approach underscores the company’s dedication to teamwork, disciplined excellence and continues its pioneering leadership that began in the 1980s when the winery planted some of the first organically farmed vines in the industry.

Recognizing the need for agility and adaptability in the face of evolving market dynamics, Bonterra Organic Estates departs from convention by appointing four Presidents, each leading an independent division and reporting directly to the Bonterra Organic Estates Board of Directors in Chile.

Leading the Commercial Unit, President – Sales & Wholesale Allison Wetsel will accelerate Bonterra Organic Estates’ growth with her track record of success. Meanwhile, President – Marketing Rodrigo Maturana’s exceptional market acumen will power brand campaigns. Formerly Senior Vice Presidents, both will spearhead their respective divisions.

Managing the support unit President – Finance & Administration Emmanuel Garibay will lead the areas of Administration, Finance, Human Resources, and Management Control. At the same time, President – Operations Erik Olsen will oversee all aspects of Vineyard, Winemaking, and Winery Operations, Production, and Supply Chain. The respective former Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer bring a wealth of expertise to their units, ensuring efficient cross-functionality.

Viña Concha Y Toro SA Chief Executive Officer Eduardo Guilisasti Gana expressed unwavering confidence in the four-division leadership of its subsidiary Bonterra Organic Estates, stating, “Our new management model will take our business to new heights, leveraging the power of collaboration, innovative management, and the extraordinary talent and expertise within our organization.” He added, “I must express my deep gratitude to Giancarlo Bianchetti for his steadfast commitment during his exceptional 12-year tenure as CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. His disciplined approach and visionary leadership shaped our sustainability strategy and drove our growth. As we embark on this new chapter, I am pleased to welcome Giancarlo back to Viña Concha y Toro in Chile.”

This bold approach not only reflects Bonterra Organic Estates’ commitment to fostering collaboration and driving innovation but also aligns with its spirit as an industry forerunner. The power-sharing arrangement facilitates timely and strategic decisions, leveraging the complementary expertise of the four division presidents. Furthermore, this inclusive leadership fosters resilience and agility, crucial attributes to thrive in the rapidly evolving global wine market.

This new structure positions Bonterra Organic Estates to seize opportunities, adapt to evolving consumer demands, and maintain leadership as the organic wine pioneer. By continuing its legacy of innovation and embracing collaborative leadership, the company will navigate the ever-changing global wine market with confidence and remain at the forefront of sustainable and exceptional winemaking.

May 31, 2023

Bonterra Organic Estates’ Joseph Brinkley Receives Climate Smart Agriculture Groundbreaker Award

Award Recognizes Brinkley’s Longstanding Efforts to Advance Regenerative Organic Agriculture as a Climate Solution.

HOPLAND, Calif., (May 31, 2023) – Bonterra Organic Estates, the largest Regenerative Certified® winery in the United States, proudly announces that Joseph Brinkley, Director of Regenerative Farming, earned the esteemed 2023 BICEP Climate Smart Agriculture Groundbreaker Award from the nonprofit organization Ceres. This recognition highlights Brinkley as a vital member of the Ceres Climate Smart Agriculture and Healthy Soil (CSAHS) Working Group, as well his impassioned advocacy for regenerative organic agriculture.

The BICEP Climate Smart Agriculture Groundbreaker Award exemplifies Brinkley’s commitment to advancing environmentally sound and regenerative organic farming practices. Brinkley’s active involvement in the CSAHS Working Group has been instrumental in driving tangible policy changes that significantly impact the agriculture and viticulture communities. Through collaborative efforts with Ceres, the Organic Trade Association, and other stakeholders, he has played a pivotal role in championing organic priorities on a broad scale while raising awareness about the vital role of regenerative organic farming methods as a climate solution.

Moreover, Brinkley is active in legislation advocacy, meeting with bi-partisan lawmakers to support an upcoming 2023 U.S. Farm Bill that prioritizes regenerative organic agriculture and promotes equitable agricultural practices. Recently, he dedicated two weeks on Capitol Hill engaging in meaningful discussions with members of Congress and the White House, highlighting the critical need for increased funding for organic agriculture.

Cindy Clark, senior manager, regenerative agriculture policy at Ceres commended Joseph’s award, stating, “It is our pleasure to present Joseph and Bonterra Organic Estates with our Climate Smart Agriculture Groundbreaker award. Joseph has represented Bonterra extremely well as an integral member of the Ceres Climate Smart Agriculture and Healthy Soil Working Group, and we have been deeply impressed by his abilities as an enthusiastic and highly educational participant in meetings with lawmakers from both parties. We look forward to our continued work with Joseph and Bonterra this year in support of a 2023 Farm Bill that equitably prioritizes regenerative agriculture.”

January 25, 2023

Bonterra Organic Estates Launches Regenerative Organic Certified® Wines, Debuts The Bonterra Estate Collection

Beverage industry’s only global green-specific awards honor the company’s commitment to regenerative organic farming, responsible business practices and environmental stewardship.

HOPLAND, Calif., Jan. 25, 2023 – Bonterra Organic Estates® today launches the Bonterra Estate Collection, a new tier of Regenerative Organic Certified® wines. Among the first Regenerative Organic Certified wines available globally, these are the first grown and produced in Mendocino County, California. The new Estate Collection is emblematic of the company’s decades of pioneering leadership in regenerative organic viticulture and captures the unspoiled wildlands of Bonterra Organic Estates’ own vineyards in Mendocino County. The Estate Collection is now available for purchase nationwide.

The Bonterra Estate Collection is the first tier of Regenerative Organic Certified wines produced by the winery, which achieved the rigorous Regenerative Organic Certification at the silver level in late 2021 for all of its Mendocino County vineyard holdings and winery. Certified by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, the seal sets the highest standards for organic agriculture in the world. Regenerative Organic Certified farms and products adhere to stringent environmental, ethical, and social standards. The Estate Collection wines meet strong consumer demand for products made with transparency, traceability, and verified responsible business practices, aligning with Bonterra values as a certified B Corp.

“Wine and agriculture are on the front lines of the climate crisis, and we are uniquely positioned to pioneer best practices that help cultivate a better future for all,” said Joseph Brinkley, director of regenerative farming for Bonterra Organic Estates. “Our new Estate Collection is the culmination of many decades of regenerative organic farming, and clearly expresses our Mendocino County estate ranches.”

The Bonterra Estate Collection consists of a 2021 Chardonnay soand a 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the iconic Butler Ranch Vineyard. Situated 2,235 feet up in the mountain tops of Mendocino’s rugged North Coast of California, the vineyard’s high altitude and maritime microclimate produce fruit with intensity and rich, complex flavors.

The Estate Collection is the latest milestone in Bonterra Organic Estates’ journey as a pioneer in regenerative in organic farming and responsible business practices in the wine industry. Since its first organic vineyards were planted in 1987, Bonterra Organic Estates has demonstrated farming organically at scale is possible using regenerative organic practices–including sheep grazing, cover cropping, applying compost, and more.

A certified B Corp since 2015, Bonterra Organic Estates is committed to using business as a force for good. In addition to its regenerative organic credentials, Bonterra also proudly carries the Climate Neutral Certification and was the first to craft nationally available, organically grown Climate Neutral Certified wines. As a TRUE Zero Waste certified business, the winery diverts more than 98% of all waste from landfills or incineration.

The Bonterra Estate Collection is available for purchase at bonterra.com and will be rolling out to major retailers nationwide. A comprehensive list can be found on Bonterra’s store locator HERE. The Estate Collection wines are each priced at $21.99.

December 6, 2022

Bonterra Organic Estates Named Green Company of the Year 2022 by The Drinks Business

Beverage industry’s only global green-specific awards honor the company’s commitment to regenerative organic farming, responsible business practices and environmental stewardship.

HOPLAND, Calif., December 6, 2022 – Bonterra Organic Estates®, a certified B Corporation, has been honored as Green Company of the Year by the drinks business magazine. This recognition highlights the company’s acceleration of longstanding impact initiatives over the last 12 months, from achieving Regenerative Organic Certification® for all of its estate vineyards and winery, to formally changing the organization’s name from Fetzer Vineyards to Bonterra Organic Estates in order to more clearly emphasize its guiding values.

The drinks business Green Awards are the world’s largest program raising awareness of sustainability and mission-driven companies in the beverage trade, and the only set of green-specific awards that encompass the global beverage industry. These awards recognize and reward the brands and individuals who hold a green agenda at the very heart of their businesses, and demonstrate tangible results. Winners are determined by an independent panel of sustainability and drinks industry experts. The Green Company of the Year Award, awarded to Bonterra Organic Estates this year, salutes a beverage company that has both improved its own direct environmental impact through changes to business practices, and promoted this effectively to a wider audience.

“Wine and agriculture are on the front lines of the climate crisis, which means we are uniquely positioned to pioneer best practices that help cultivate a better future for all,” said Giancarlo Bianchetti, CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. “We are deeply gratified by this recognition of our efforts by industry peers, and will continue working to improve our environmental impact further—and, hopefully, to inspire other companies around the world to do the same.”

This Green Company of the Year Award is the capstone of an eventful twelve months in Bonterra Organic Estates’ history. In December 2021, the winery secured Regenerative Organic Certification for all of its Mendocino County, California vineyards and winery. Bonterra Organic Estates achieved Silver-level certification by demonstrating adherence to rigorous standards across the program’s applicable pillars—soil health and social fairness—and committing to ongoing improvement. In late 2021, the company’s popular Bonterra brand also achieved Climate Neutral certification after measuring, reducing, and offsetting a full 100% of greenhouse gas emissions from production and delivery of the wines. To help educate and bring consumers along on its Climate Neutral journey, the company deployed a national marketing campaign around Climate Neutral wine, including full-page ads in the New York Times and Los Angeles Times.

Earlier this year, Bonterra Organic Estates also formally committed to the Science-Based Target initiative, a global partnership that empowers ambitious climate action in the private sector by helping organizations set and achieve emissions reduction and decarbonization targets grounded in the best available scientific evidence. Additionally, as a result of Bonterra Organic Estates’ ambitious and broad-ranging environmental efforts, B Lab, the global nonprofit network that certifies and mobilizes B Corporations, named the company a “Best for the World” in the Environment category this year – an award reserved for the top 5% of similarly sized global B Corps for positive environmental impact.  Finally, and most visibly, in August the company officially changed its name from Fetzer Vineyards to Bonterra Organic Estates in order to highlight its forward-thinking regenerative organic commitments.

Bonterra Organic Estates has long led its industry in modeling planet-friendly business practices and continues to advocate for climate-smart policies at the state and national levels. In 2015, then-Fetzer Vineyards became the first recipient of the California Green Medal Leader award, which recognized the winery’s longstanding sustainability commitments and leadership in the California wine industry. In 2017, the company was the only winery in the world to be commended at COP23 by the United Nations Climate Change secretariat, which recognized the winery’s work toward a climate positive future with a Lighthouse “Momentum for Change” Climate Solutions Award. In 2020, the company declared a climate emergency and committed to achieving climate-positive operations by 2030.

©2022 Bonterra Organic Estates, Mendocino County, California USA

August 2, 2022

Fetzer Vineyards Adopts the Operating Name Change of Bonterra Organic Estates

Fetzer Vineyards, one of the leading organic wineries in the U.S., announced today that it is adopting the operating name of Bonterra Organic Estates, effective immediately.

The name Bonterra Organic Estates affirms the company’s commitment to regenerative organic farming, responsible business practices and environmental stewardship. The new name applies to the company’s corporate identity, as well as its Mendocino County, Calif., vineyard holdings and winery. Bonterra Organic Estates will encompass the company’s California wine brands including Fetzer®, 1000 Stories®, and  Bonterra®, among others.

“Bonterra Organic Estates communicates the ethos of our California-based business and aligns with our dedication to regenerative organic farming,” said Giancarlo Bianchetti, CEO of Bonterra Organic Estates. “We are embarking on a new chapter, in which we trailblaze advancements in regenerative organic practices while honoring the deep roots of the Fetzer family legacy.”

The Fetzer family founded Fetzer Vineyards in 1968 and pioneered California’s regenerative organic viticulture movement, which prioritizes the health of the vineyard ecosystem and combats climate change. The Fetzer brand remains unchanged, continuing this legacy and offering a smart option for consumers at the popular price point.

Bonterra was born out of the Fetzer Vineyards winery in the late 1980s. Today it is one of the fastest-growing premium wine brands in the United States, thanks to the greater awareness of—and consumer demand for— wines made with organic grapes. Bonterra Organic Estates embraces regenerative organic viticulture, practicing it exclusively on all 960 acres of its estate vineyards in Mendocino County, Calif.

“In elevating the Bonterra name, we are building on our decades of environmental stewardship coupled with the innovative leadership style and business acumen of our parent company, Viña Concha y Toro,” Bianchetti added. “Our promise, as Bonterra Organic Estates, is to continue to prioritize the environment as this best serves our community, customers, and future generations.”

To learn more about Bonterra Organic Estates, visit www.bonterra.com.

ABOUT BONTERRA ORGANIC ESTATES  
As a Certified B Corporation, Bonterra Organic Estates is grounded in the transformational goals of regenerative business. Since its founding, the winery has been driven by excellence, innovation and longstanding commitments to the environment and responsible business practices. With a focus on crafting wines made from organic and Regenerative Organic Certified™ grapes, Bonterra Organic Estates produces leading wine brands from its facility in Mendocino County, California, including category leader Bonterra (named the 2016 Wine Enthusiast American Winery of the Year); sustainability standout Fetzer; and 1000 Stories, California’s original Bourbon barrel-aged wine.

July 26, 2022

Bourbon Barrel-Aged Wine Pioneer 1000 Stories Introduces Distinctive American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

Newly Appointed Master Winemaker Sebastian Donoso Sets A New Course For The Future Of 1000 Stories

1000 Stories, the winery that boldly pioneered bourbon barrel-aged wines, is writing a new chapter debuting wines aged in virgin American oak starting with American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This comes at a time when Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are driving growth in the Ultra Premium wine category—growing 3.4% and 2.1% year on year respectively.1

1000 Stories has also appointed celebrated winemaker Sebastian Donoso to lead its winemaking operations, ushering in a new era for the brand. This marks the passing of the torch from 1000 Stories founding winemaker Bob Blue who retired in June. Blue is known for breaking the winemaking status quo when he began aging Zinfandel in bourbon barrels to create 1000 Stories in 2014.

“1000 Stories has always been about deliberately matching variety to oak – what’s possible when you explore that connection as a conscious element of flavor, rather than as a characteristic to de-emphasize, like in more traditional winemaking,” said Donoso. “Making these wines pushes me to be more experimental and bolder in my craft.”

Donoso works with coopers who source the American oak from eastern Minnesota and season barrels outdoors for 24 months. The barrels are then toasted to a specific toast level intended to bring out desired aroma and flavor characteristics, while also respecting the fruit. After Donoso selects premium lots from California vineyards and vinifies the grapes, the final blends are then aged in the American oak barrels, which adds a depth of flavor and creaminess to the wine’s mouth feel, alongside notes of vanilla, coconut oil, allspice, dried herbs and earth. The end result distinguishes these wines from their counterparts that are more often aged in French oak, creating a distinctively new drinking experience.

“We’re thrilled to share our unique approach to these beloved wine varietals with consumers,” said Tiffany Tran, senior brand manager for 1000 Stories. “At 1000 Stories we have always pushed winemaking boundaries and continue to do so with our new American Barrel-Aged wines. We’re offering an unexpected take on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and a special wine drinking experience.”

Born from a profound respect for the natural world and an innate curiosity about what lies beyond our own four walls, 1000 Stories wines are a celebration of the world around us and an homage to the importance of our country’s natural abundance. The newly launched American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay represent the winery’s forward thinking commitment to innovation and provide a glimpse into the future of the brand.

To kick start that future, the debut of the 1000 Stories American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay will usher in a new look that will debut across the entire portfolio. This new design is inspired by vintage spirits bottles and proudly continues to feature the brand’s emblematic bison icon—a nod to the American symbol that’s a cultural representation of wildness and freedom in the natural world.

The 750ml Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, priced at $19.99, will be available in August and October respectively, and the entire 1000 Stories collection in new packaging will begin shipping to retailers nationwide in October. Wine enthusiasts can sample the new American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and other wines from 1000 Stories at the Outside Lands music festival running August 5-7, 2022 in San Francisco. Learn more about the collection and 1000 Stories at http://www.1000storieswines.com

About 1000 Stories 

Expertly crafted by Master Winemaker Sebastian Donoso, 1000 Stories brings an expressive and bold take to wines. Starting with bourbon barrels and expanding to American oak, the nuance and character of each wine is brought to life through our barrel aging process. Named an IMPACT “Hot Prospect” brand three years in a row for its trailblazing portfolio, 1000 Stories consistently garners point scores of 90 or above from celebrated publications. The collection includes the new American Barrel-Aged Pinot Noir and Chardonnay along with the Bourbon Barrel-Aged Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Red Blend. Each bottle conveys our curiosity about the world around us and ongoing commitment to sparking that curiosity in all of us. To learn more, visit www.1000storieswines.com

1“Source: IRI L52 weeks ending 7-22-2022 Ultra Premium $15–$19.99 Total US – MULO + C”